​Carmel Valley is located just east of Del Mar and west of Rancho Penasquitos with easy access to the Highway 56 freeway. Just northwest of downtown San Diego, Carmel Valley is known for its number of great restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses. Schools of Carmel Valley are part of the Del Mar Union School District. Although one of the newer neighborhoods in the San Diego area, Carmel Valley has quickly become known for its beautiful homes and scenery.